THE Tulfo siblings insisted that the P60-million ad placement of the Department of Tourism (DOT) was aboveboard during a Senate blue ribbon committee hearing Tuesday, August 14.
Present were former Tourism secretary Wanda Tulfo-Teo and her brothers Ben and Erwin Tulfo.
The former Cabinet official maintained she was unaware of the deal between the DOT and state-run People’s Television Network Incorporated (PTV4).
She pointed out she did not know that Ben and Erwin hosted the block time program “Kilos Pronto,” which aired the ad placement.
Teo said if she would have known, the transaction would not have pushed through.
She said it’s up to Ben if he will return the money or not, although, she noted that her brothers already spent the millions.
But again, ignorance of the law excuses no one - yes, no one.
Ben Tulfo insisted he will not return the P60 million since there’s nothing illegal on the deal, meaning it was supported by all the proper documents.
The Senators are questioning the constitutionality of the transaction between the DOT and PTV4 because, under the law, government officials are not allowed to make a deal with their families or immediate relatives.
Erwin Tulfo said they will face everything at the proper forum, which is the court.
He pointed out that only the court can decide if there is plunder in the transaction.